Bleckley County High School
TABLE OF CONTENTSGeneral Information ..................................................................4Student Information ...................................................................6Dress Code ..............................................................................10Attendance ...............................................................................12Grades and Requirements .......................................................15Graduation Requirements ........................................................16Discipline Policies and Procedures ..........................................17Student Advisement Program ..................................................26Bleckley County High SchoolAlma MaterIn the midst of our fair cityReared against the skyProudly stands our Alma MaterAs the years go by.Forward ever be our watchwordConquer and PrevailHail to thee, our Alma Mater,Bleckley High, all hail!Expect ExcellenceAcademics, Athletics, and the ArtsWELCOME FROM THE PRINCIPALWelcome back for another exciting year of school! I hope your summer has been relaxing and you are enthusiastic about the challenges and opportunities that will be presented to you this year. Our handbook was created with you in mind. We hope it will answer your questions regarding policies, procedures, and the many other issues related to high school. It is a resource that you will refer to throughout the school year. It is important to take the time to review it with your parents. If you have questions, do not hesitate to ask any member of our staff for clarification. We will be happy to help. Remember to make the most of your opportunities in academics, athletics, and the arts. Always remember – BCHS Royals Expect Excellence!Matt Gibbs, PrincipalExpect ExcellenceAcademics, Athletics, and the ArtsFellow Royals,As senior class president, it is my honor to welcome you to the 2019 - 2020 school year at Bleckley County High School. When entering this school, we take on the gracious title of being a Royal. By receiving this title, we are expected to uphold and even surpass the high standards that have been set for us. Our schools are outstanding in the areas of academics, arts, and athletics. As students of Bleckley County High School, we should be committed to fulfilling expectations, keeping traditions alive, and having fun. Freshmen, consider this year a blank page for you. Prepared or not, this is a year of progress and development. Your four-year journey will go by in a flash. Here are tips for a successful high school career: First, make the most of each and every day given to you. This includes making connections with any and everyone. Second, make your mark on Bleckley County High School. You can do this by finding new interests and getting involved in any extracurricular activities you feel like your heart is tied to. And third, pay attention to your academics. Make goals for yourself and exceed them. You will win some and you will lose a lot more, but you will ultimately be defined by how you carry yourself after. High school is truly a roller coaster, so hang on, make tons of memories, and set your compass. Sophomores, you have gotten a glimpse of high school already. By the end of this year, you will be halfway finished with high school. My advice to you is stay on top of your studies. If you made some mistakes during freshman year, move on. There is no better time to fix them than now. Replace old habits with more productive ways to lead you to success. Establish efficient and effective study methods that fit you. It will not come easy. In addition, I hope that you have found an activity at BCHS that makes you happy. If not, I encourage you to find one this year. There are numerous clubs and pathways waiting to be fulfilled by you. Staying positive is key. Despite the trials that you face, the true reward is finding how to learn from your mistakes and move forward. Juniors, stay motivated. This year will be one of your toughest, but remember that you are still allowed to have fun as long as you keep your academics in mind. You will always be able to gain something useful from every single course you take. These classes will fundamentally shape some of the values that you will keep with you in the long run. Next, always plan. If you fail to plan, then quite naturally, plan to fail. Procrastination never helps, so stay on top of any work that you receive because every single grade counts. Lastly, stay connected with your class. You are more successful together.Fellow seniors, one last ride. Over the years, the time has flown. I have enjoyed getting to know each of you. As for myself, I can truly say, every one of you is special and so worthy of all the praise in the world. Just yesterday, we were all freshmen trying to figure out how to play the game of “high school.” Now we are so close to the finish line and opening a new chapter of life, but I ask you not to take the little things for granted. We are more than just a class. We are a family who cares, nurtures, and wants the absolute best for one another. Furthermore, I ask you to continue dreaming. No matter what road you choose or how long it may seem, with the help of your classmates and your heart, you are able to conquer any obstacle set before you. Let us continue to be role models, love whole-heartedly, make memories, and build bonds with each other forever. As we make plans to move forward during the year and as we look forward to our future endeavors, let us not define each other by race, beliefs, or politics. Let us be a class that is undivided now and forever. Congratulations Class of 2020, it was a dream and now it is finally a reality. We made it. Sincerely, Cameilla BlashSenior Class PresidentGENERAL INFORMATIONINFORMATION GUIDEIf You Need: Go To:Admittance/Tardy Slip.....................................................................Media CenterAdvice About Your Schedule...................................................Counselor/AdvisorAnnouncement on Bulletin..........................................................Office PersonnelAppeals..................................................................................................Mr. GibbsApproval for Activities.............................................................................Mr. GibbsAttendance Information.......................................................................Dr. Godwin Mrs. Shawna HarrisAudio Visual Aids....................................................................Mrs. Maggie AdamsChange of Schedule....................................................................Mrs. A. Knighton Mr. GibbsClubs .................................................................................................Club AdvisorDiscipline Information.............................................................................Mr. Gibbs Dr. Knox/Dr. GodwinDriver’s License Attendance Form/ADA....................................Counselor’s OfficeEarly Dismissal.....................................................................................Front OfficeFree/Reduced Meal Application.........................................Lunchroom SupervisorInformation about Collegeor Technical College.....................................................................Mrs. A. KnightonLate Enrollment.............................................................................Mrs. A. KnightonLibrary Information...................................................................Mrs. Maggie AdamsLost and Found.............................................................................Office PersonnelMedical Attention...........................................................Administration/Mrs. BartonParking....................................................................................Mrs. Gretchen HorneScholarships/Financial Aid.............................................................Mrs. A. KnightonStudent Council Input............................................ Student Council RepresentativeTo Be Listened To..............................................................................Administration CounselorsTranscript Request.........................................................................Mrs. A. KnightonTransportation Problem.............................................................Mr. Stan ThompsonWithdrawal from School..................................................................Mrs. A. KnightonSTUDENT COUNCILStudent Council is a very important part of Bleckley County High School. The Student Council is entrusted with the duty of serving fellow students in many capacities. A few of the responsibilities of the Student Council include the following:(A) Planning interesting extracurricular activities for the student body(B) Establishing better student-faculty relations(C) Offering suggestions and help in improving school policies(D) Reporting the actions and decisions of the Student Council to fellow studentsElected by the student body in the spring of each year, Student Council is composed of a group of students selected by their peers for the purpose of giving students a voice in school government. The officers of the Student Council are President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer. The Student Council allows each student a chance to participate in the democratic process of representative government.Senior ClassPresident Cameilla BlashVice-President Janiah JohnsonSecretaryChloe SandersTreasurerSeth Hall Junior ClassPresident Caroline PittmanVice-President Dominic SasserSecretary LaraBeth ManningTreasurer Megan DykesSophomore ClassPresident Jalexia TaylorVice-President Jamirial JosiahSecretary Treasurer Freshmen ClassPresident Ashlynn CorbinVice-PresidentEmily ArnoldSecretaryChristian PikeTreasurerBLECKLEY COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLPHILOSOPHY OF CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR? The basic functions of the school are teaching and learning.? Teachers have the right and obligation to teach.? Students have the right and obligation to learn.? Any behavior that violates the rights or interferes with the performance of these obligations isunacceptable behavior.? The teacher decides what is acceptable or unacceptable in his/her class.? The school has the right and obligation to either change or eliminate any behavior that interferes with teaching and learning.SCHOOL POLICIESThe student is responsible to the school from the time he or she leaves home until he or she returns home at the end of the school day. All school policies apply to students 24 hours a day while on campus or close proximity and/or at school activities away from campus.CONFERENCESStudents and parents are encouraged to initiate conferences with teachers and administrators about attendance, behavior, class work, grades, and extracurricular activities. A conference may be scheduled by telephoning the school office, emailing the appropriate person, or sending a note by your child. The phone number for Bleckley County High School is 478-934-6258.DAILY ANNOUNCEMENTSMost announcements will be made at the beginning of first period. Announcements should be written and turned in to the office before 7:50 a.m. Announcements must be about school-sponsored activities.VISITORS ON CAMPUSES AND IN SCHOOLSTo enhance student safety and to comply with Georgia law, the following protocol for visitors will be enforced: “Any person who is not a student at such school, an employee of the school or school system, a school board member, an approved volunteer following the established guidelines of the school or a person who has been invited to or otherwise authorized to be at the school by a principal, teacher, counselor, or other authorized employee of the school shall check-in at the designated location as stated on posted signs and provide a reason for his or her presence at the school immediately upon entering the campus. Unless otherwise allowed by state law, the person failing to check in at the designated location may be guilty of a misdemeanor.”STUDENT INFORMATIONPROCEDURES FOR THE BEGINNING OF THE SCHOOL DAYDuring the first day of school, students will go to advisement groups to receive class schedules. Students will be dismissed from advisement and go to first period to go over the handbook and to receive any additional information. After the first day, students will report directly to first period at the beginning of the day. The announcements, pledge, and a moment of reflection will be conducted in first period each day. Each student of the Bleckley County Schools shall be afforded the opportunity to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. Any student not wishing to participate shall act in an orderly manner during the pledge. Students are not required to participate but will be encouraged. (Board Policy JCAC). A Minute of Reflection will be observed. All students assembled will participate in the quiet time of reflection.MINUTE OF REFLECTIONThe 1994 Georgia General Assembly enacted Senate Bill 396, requiring a “minute of reflection” at the beginning of each school day throughout the year.Each school principal will designate a specific time at the beginning of the school day for the minute of reflection. The brief quiet time of reflection will not be more than 60 seconds, and all students assembled will participate in the quiet time of reflection. The teacher of the class will be responsible for the quiet time. Any student misbehavior will be subject to the behavior code of the school and handled as any other behavior problem. The quiet time of reflection is not intended and shall not be conducted as a religious service or experience but shall be considered an opportunity for each student to reflect on the anticipated activities of the day. Administrators and teachers are not to suggest or imply that students should or should not use the time for prayer. However, if a student asks about praying, the teacher should advise the student that if the student desires to have quiet/silent prayer, he or she may do so.HALL PASS AND PERMISSION TO BE OUT OF CLASSClass time is intended for instruction and should be viewed as such. From time to time it may be necessary to be out of the classroom for a variety of reasons. If at any time, for any reason a student is not in class, the student is expected to have a pass from a teacher stating the reason the student is out, where the student is going, and the time the student left class. Students who are out of class without a pass will be returned to class. No student, for any reason, is permitted to go to a teacher’s classroom with the intention of seeing another student. SENIOR PRIVILEGESA student must have earned the required number of units to be a senior in order to be afforded the privileges of being a senior. These privileges include but are not limited to the following: 1) having one’s picture placed in the senior section of the yearbook; 2) being eligible for selection as a senior superlative or senior class favorite; 3) attending the prom as a senior; 4) sitting in the senior section in the lunchroom; 5) ordering graduation invitations and a graduation cap and gown as well as other privileges not listed. Attending a fourth year of high school does not mean a student is considered a senior nor does it afford one the privileges of being a senior.ATTENDING THE PROMOnly students in the eleventh or twelfth grade (by academic standing) at Bleckley County High School are eligible to attend the prom. All other students must be the date of someone eligible to attend the prom. The following rules apply for prom attendance:1. No alcoholic beverages or drugs will be allowed.2. The use of alcohol or drugs carries the same punishments as mentioned in the Student Code of Conduct.3. Students who leave the prom may not return.4. Students will be held responsible for the conduct of their out of school date during the prom.5.BCHS has a dress code for prom. The dress code is posted on the school website.6. The school may retain the right to restrict admission to the prom to Bleckley County High School students.7.Prom dates must be under the age of 21.8. Middle school students and younger aged persons are not allowed to attend prom.9. If your date is not a Bleckley County High School Student, he/she must be approved by BCHS administration.LOCK AND LOCKER ASSIGNMENTSEach student will be assigned a locker. The student will be given the lock combination. The student’s name, locker number, lock number, and combination will be recorded. Students should keep their lockers locked at all times. There should be no sharing of lockers. Students are responsible for what is found in their lockers. The school is not responsible for items taken from students’ lockers.SCHOOL INSURANCEParents who wish to purchase Student Accident Insurance for their child may do so through the Markel Insurance Company through electronic enrollment directly with the company. To find more information, or to purchase Student Insurance, please visit the Bleckley County Schools website () and click on School Insurance for Students or visit where you will be able to 1) View all of the coverage and premium options; 2) Review a Frequently Asked Questions section; 3) Purchase the insurance using a credit/debit card and receive an instant and printable confirmation of what you purchase. The purchase of insurance for your child is the responsibility of the parent or guardian of that child. Markel Insurance Company is an independent agency and has no direct relationship with the Bleckley County School System beyond the agreement to provide parents of its students with the information listed above.** All students taking part in extracurricular activities and field trips are required to provide proof of health insurance.STUDENT SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERSGeorgia law states “No child or youth shall be admitted to any public school of the state until the parent or guardian provides to the proper school authority an official copy of that child’s social security number.” The law further provides that parents or guardians who object to this may receive a waiver by signing a notarized statement objecting to this requirement.BUILDINGS, FURNISHINGS, AND CAMPUSWillful and intentional damage to any part, furnishings, or parcel of these facilities shall be repaired at the expense of the wrongdoer, and such other action as deemed appropriate will be taken to the fullest extent permitted under the law.TELEPHONE USEThe telephone in the office is for business use only. School personnel will call a parent in cases where illness prevents the student from staying in class. No social calls are allowed on the school telephone. Students will not be called to the office for a phone call unless an emergency exists. Students are not to use the phone to call home to bring items they forgot. The office will receive messages that are important and deliver them to the student during the class changes. Class time is not to be used to make phone calls. MEDICATIONAll medication prescribed or otherwise, including aspirin, Tylenol, etc., must be left in the main office for safe keeping and dispensing. Students will be allowed to take medicine by coming to the office to get their medicine at the prescribed time. Students can pick up their medicine at the end of the school day. Students who fail to comply will be subject to discipline.TEXTBOOK/SCHOOL SUPPLIESA textbook will be issued to each student free of charge for each course that requires a textbook. When issued a textbook, students become responsible for ensuring that the book does not become lost or damaged beyond normal usage. Loss or excessive damage to textbooks will result in the student paying full price for the book. Students withdrawing from school or class must return the books and/or other equipment to the issuing teacher. All books must be paid for prior to graduation. Students are responsible for other supplies such as paper, pencils, notebooks, etc., as required by their teachers.TRANSCRIPTSThe first two transcripts are free. Additional transcripts will be sent for a $1.00 fee.CLASS TRIPSBleckley County High School will not support any non-school sponsored trips.POSTERS AND ANNOUNCEMENTSStudents must have permission from a principal or assistant principal before placing posters and announcements in the school. Posters must be related to school-sponsored activities only.CLUB REQUIREMENTSStudents are encouraged to join and actively participate in BCHS clubs, teams, and organizations. These activities are designed to make students’ high school experience more enjoyable. No student will be required to join a club or sell items as a requirement for belonging to any club. If a student chooses to join a club and pay membership dues, such dues are nonrefundable. School clubs and organizations must secure board permission to sell items or conduct other fund-raisers.MEDIA CENTERThe media center is open Monday through Friday at 7:30 a.m. for students with a pass from a subject teacher with an assignment to do for that class. The media center will be open after school until 3:30 p.m. Books are checked out for two weeks and may be rechecked once.Scheduled classes accompanied by their teacher are given first preference each class period. The remaining chairs are available for any student with a media center assignment from the teacher for that class. A teacher may send only three students to the media center during one period. These students must have a note from the teacher with a media center assignment for that teacher’s class. The note should be signed by the media specialist and returned to the teacher at the end of that class period. Students who talk or sleep in the media center or who do not work on an assignment will be sent back to the teacher who sent them to the media center. FIRE ALARM DRILLS/SEVERE WEATHER ALERT DRILLSWhen fire drills are held, the fire alarm will sound until the building is cleared. The all-clear signal will be a short ringing of the bell system. Teachers, staff, and students will move to the designated open areas outside the building. Quiet and orderly drills are a must. Teachers and staff members will be responsible for ensuring students exit the building and remain with their designated classes. Severe weather alert drills will be held based on state mandated requirements. Remember these drills are an exercise in saving lives. Teachers and students must take the drills seriously. There should be no talking or horse playing during the drills. Uncooperative or disruptive students will be sent to the principal’s office for disciplinary action.LUNCHROOMApplications for free and reduced meals may be obtained from the lunchroom cashier. The following rules of conduct and table manners are expected when eating in the lunchroom:1. Enter the lunchroom quietly and stay in line.2. If additional milk or water is desired, buy the milk in the lunch line or go to the water cooler.3. Remove cups, plates, forks, spoons, cartons, and paper napkins from the table.4. Do not remove food or drinks from the lunchroom. Do not take tea, cups of ice, or food items to class after the lunch period ends.Students are expected to follow these general rules of conduct. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action. Students who break in line or run to the lunchroom will be punished at the discretion of the administration. Classes will go as a group to the lunchroom each day. All students who bring lunches will eat in the lunchroom. Students bringing lunch may purchase milk. Students are encouraged to pay for several meals in advance. Money will be credited into a student’s account until the student has used it. Students should pay the cashier while in line getting their tray. In addition, students may pay during breakfast or lunch. Parents/guardians may also pay online by setting up an account at the following website: .NO ONE IS ALLOWED TO CHARGE ANY AMOUNT IN THE LUNCHROOMNo refunds will be given once a student has paid lunch money. The money remains in the account for later use. Money in the student’s account will be carried over each year. Refunds are given to seniors upon request the last week of school. Money in the account can only be used for 1 breakfast and/or 1 lunch per day. NO checks will be cashed. The entire amount of a check will be deposited into the student’s account for the purchase of meals. No change will be given from a check. Extra items must be purchased with cash and must be purchased while a student is in line getting his/her tray. Students are not allowed to purchase extra items after leaving the cashier area.SENIOR LUNCH AREASeniors are allowed to eat on the patio behind the cafeteria. This is a privilege reserved for seniors only.HALLS AND CORRIDORS DURING LUNCHHalls and corridors should be free of students during lunch periods. Every student has an assigned place to be during this time. Students should not be in the parking lot during lunch.SALE OF COMPETITIVE FOODSNo competitive food items may be sold during the breakfast or lunch period unless approved by the Board of Education.STUDENT DRIVERS AND PARKINGStudents who drive to school must purchase a permit from the front office. Students will be assigned a numbered parking space and are expected to park in that space and properly display the permit on their vehicle. Students must leave cars and the parking lot area immediately upon arrival. Students should not loiter in the parking lot upon arrival at school. Students should return to their cars at the end of the school day and avoid loitering in the school parking lot. All vehicles parked on campus are subject to search by school officials without warning.Students are not allowed to sit in cars or be in the parking lot at any time during school hours, including lunch. Students must have permission from the principal or assistant principal to return to their car during the day. Any student who has a college class, who is scheduled in work-based learning, or who is a teacher cadet will be required to park in the front parking lot for safety reasons. Parking permits are $20 for all students. After first semester, passes may be purchased for $10. Seniors will be given the opportunity to purchase parking permits first. After that, permits will be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. Replacement tags are $3 each. Students must park in their assigned space. If students are caught parking in another spot the following consequences will take place:1st Offense: Warning2nd Offense: $15.00 Fine3rd Offense: $15.00 fine and loss of parking privileges for 1 week.4th Offense: Loss of parking privileges for the remainder of the school year.DRESS CODE Bleckley County High School students should dress in such a way as to prevent distraction, disruption, or interference with the learning process. Clothing, apparel, and/or accessories that can be interpreted as indecent or too revealing as well as styles/items that adversely affect the health and safety of students should not be worn at school. Students must dress in a manner that covers the body appropriately and modestly. Underwear/undergarments should not be seen, even when a student is sitting. Oversized, loose, baggy, or low-cut clothing is not allowed. The principal or other authorized school officials shall determine whether clothing, apparel, and/or accessories are inappropriate or interfere with and disrupt the learning process. The following are inappropriate for school and should NOT be worn:HATS/HEAD WEAR1. hats2. caps3. hair rollers4. combs5. other head coveringsSHIRTS/TOPS/T-SHIRTS/BLOUSES1. tank tops 2. midriff/tube tops 3. crop tops**All shirts must cover the midriff (both the front and the back), cleavage, and the top of the shoulder. Shirts must be fitted under the arm. There should be no open areas on the sides of shirts. Shirts should not have an open or lace back without a tank top, camisole, or undershirt with a one inch shoulder strap underneath. When seated, a student’s shirt should not ride up and show skin in the front or back.PANTS/SHORTS/SKIRTS/DRESSES/JEGGINGS/LEGGINGS/SWEAT PANTS1. jeans/pants with excessive holes, rips, or tears2. leggings/jeggings unless they are worn with a dress, skirt, or top that is fingertip length or mid-thigh3. pajama pants4. mesh shorts5. baggy pants worn below the waist6. pants deemed inappropriate by administration**No skin or undergarments should be seen if pants have holes above the knee. **Shorts, skirts, and dresses must touch the knee.ADDITIONAL DRESS CODE RULES:1. Students are not allowed to wear apparel with profanity, vulgarity, or other offensive language, cult signs or pictures, weapons, and/or references to alcohol or drugs.2. Students are not allowed to wear any clothing or accessory item(s) with gang insignias or other references indicative of gang affiliation. 3. Students are not allowed to wear or be in possession of emblems, insignias, or badges that interfere with or disrupt the learning process. 4. Students are not allowed to wear sunglasses inside the building unless they are prescription and the student has a doctor’s note indicating the necessity of the sunglasses.CONSEQUENCES**Students who wear inappropriate clothing or who are in violation of the school dress code will be issued clothes by the school. Refusal to change will result in ISS. Students who repeatedly violate the rules may be subject to additional consequences. FOOTWEAR IN LAB CLASSESStudents taking part in lab classes (science, agriculture, family and consumer science, or other classes that require students to work with equipment and materials) should wear closed-toed shoes on days they will be working in the lab setting. Students who do not come to class prepared for this will not be allowed to take part in the lab. Students may keep a pair of appropriate shoes in their locker for this purpose.PIERCINGSThe only type of piercings allowed at school are ear piercings and small nose studs. Nose rings are not allowed. PHYSICAL EDUCATION DRESSAll students are required to dress out for their physical education class. Students are required to wear tennis shoes. Students must wear shirts for physical education. Students are not allowed to wear pajama pants for physical education class. If physically able, students who do not dress out will walk around the court or other area assigned by the teacher. Those who cannot walk will be required to complete written assignments. Students who refuse to walk or write during this time will be referred to the office for classroom disruption. Written reports will be assigned as make up work for not dressing out or for being absent. Failure to do the reports will adversely affect the student’s grade.FIELD TRIPSStudents who attend a school-sponsored trip must complete the proper paperwork before leaving campus. All students must have a permission form signed by their parent, proof of medical insurance, and an emergency contact form completed. Students who are currently in ISS, suspended home, or suspended from the bus may not participate in the field trip. Students with excessive absences or who are failing more than one class may not be allowed to go on school field trips. STUDENTS LEAVING SCHOOL-SPONSORED TRIPS WITH THEIR PARENTSStudents who wish to ride home from a school-sponsored trip (athletic or other) must use the following procedure:1. Have a note signed by a parent or guardian.2. Give the note to the coach or sponsor.3. The coach or sponsor must see the parent or guardian before the student leaves the event.4. The student may leave with a parent, guardian, or grandparent.5. Exceptions to this rule must be approved by an administrator. To receive approval from an administrator, a note with parent/guardian contact information must be presented prior to the student leaving to attend/participate in the event.MISCELLANEOUS1. The teacher, NOT the bell, dismisses students from class.2. Students being disrespectful to teachers, administration, or any personnel on campus will be punished at the discretion of the administration.ASSEMBLIESMisconduct during assembly will not be tolerated. Students are to remain quiet during assembly programs. (Use concert manners.) Students will attend all assembly programs and sit with the teacher to whom they are assigned for that period.ATHLETIC EVENTSSpectators must remain in the gym or stadium or leave campus during a game at the high school. Loitering outside the gym or stadium grounds is not permitted. Any spectator who is disorderly at a ballgame will be barred from all home games and will be subject to suspension or arrest. Anyone destroying school property, personal property, or campus property is subject to arrest. BCHS is a tobacco free campus; tobacco of any kind is prohibited. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on campus at any time.ATTENDANCEBCHS ATTENDANCE POLICY(Please read carefully. The attendance policy has changed.)I. Attendance in class is necessary for students to be successful. A student should not be absent unless he/she meets the following criteria (State of Georgia approved absences):A. Has an appointment with the following: doctor, dentist, or orthodontistB. Illness of the studentC. Serious illness in the immediate family—father, mother, sibling, spouse, child, or close relativeD. Death of an immediate family member, to include grandparentsE. Special and recognized religious holidays observed by a student’s faithF. When absence is mandated by order of governmental agenciesG. Conditions rendering school attendance impossible or hazardous to a student’s health or safetyH. A student serving as a Page for the state legislatureII. Incentives: Any student who has 4 or fewer absences (excused or unexcused) in all classes in a year will receive a “Gold Card” worth $300 in value, which will allow free entry into any BCHS sporting event or extra-curricular activity, EXCEPT region, sectional, and state playoff competitions.III. Clarifications:There is no distinction between an excused or an unexcused absence for the calculation of total absences. It is important for students to turn in valid excuse notes whenever absent from school. Any unexcused absence will weigh heavily on determining the consequences for absenteeism. Students are to present excuse notes to the front office or the counselor’s office no later than 2 active school days after the absence. Anything later will be kept in a file but noted as unexcused. For example: If a student is absent on Friday, the student should present a note to the office by Tuesday of the following week. If the student turns in a note on Wednesday, the note will be considered late and will be unexcused.There will be a limit of 5 parent notes accepted as an excused absence per semester. After a student reaches the 5 parent note limit, doctors’/dentists’ notes must be submitted in order for the absence to be considered excused.Also, the phrase “Upon the ___ absence” as used in this document means that the consequence takes place on that absence (e. g. “Upon the 17th absence…the student will not be allowed to attend prom” means that a student who has missed 17 days in any class will not be allowed to attend prom.Students absent from class due to school functions will not be counted absent. (Example: testing, counseling, extracurricular activities, school-sponsored trips, etc.) A copy of the attendance report for each student will be sent home with progress reports and report cards.Each class period is considered as a separate class when calculating attendance. The exception are classes that are semester long. For example, if a student has Economics first semester and Personal Fitness second semester during 2nd period, the student can miss only 17 days total. The student cannot miss 17 days in each class.IV. Notification letters will be sent to parents on the following schedule: Upon the 5th absence in any class, a letter will be given to the student to deliver to the parent/guardian. The student must sign for the letter indicating he/she received the letter to take home.Upon the 8th absence in any class, a letter will be given to the student to deliver to the parent/guardian. The student must sign for the letter indicating he/she received the letter to take home. In addition, a letter with the attendance policy will be mailed to the parent/guardian.Upon the 11th absence in any class, a letter will be given to the student to deliver to the parent/guardian. The student must sign for the letter indicating he/she received the letter to take home. In addition, a letter with the attendance policy will be mailed to the parent/guardian requesting a meeting to discuss consequences of further absences.Upon the 17th absence in any class, a letter will be given to the student to deliver to the parent/guardian. The student must sign for the letter indicating he/she received the letter to take home. In addition, a letter with the attendance policy will be mailed to the parent/guardian.***In the event of extenuating circumstances preventing school attendance, parents/guardians must contact the administration within 5 active school days after receiving the final notification of the violation of the attendance policy. V. The following are the consequences for absenteeism: Driving and Parking on Campus (any attempt to circumvent these rules will result in forfeiture of driving privileges):Upon the 17th absence in any class, driving and parking privileges will be forfeited. Prom:Upon the 17th absence in any class, the student will not be allowed to attend prom during that same school year. Senior Week / Activities (seniors only):Upon the 17th absence in any class, the student will not be able to participate in any Senior activities, which include but are not limited to: Senior Walk, Senior Breakfast, Powder Puff or Softball Games, etc. VI. Make-up Work:Tests and other work missed during an absence must be made up within 3 days of returning to school or as arranged by the teacher. The student is responsible for making up all missed work. If a student was present when a test or other assignment was announced, the student should be prepared to take the test or hand in the assignment on the day he/she returns, even if the student was absent the day before. Tests and other work missed during an absence must be made up within 3 days of returning to school or as arranged by the teacher. If, after 3 days of returning to class, a student has not arranged to make up the test/assignment, that student will receive a 0. TEST EXEMPTIONSAll students are required to take a mid-term exam; however, students may exempt finals by meeting the following criteria:All students:Students with an 85 or higher in a class and 10 or fewer total absences (no distinction made between excused/unexcused) in a year-long class [5 or fewer absences in a semester-long class] are exempt from the final exam in that class. Additionally, the student must have had no ISS or OSS referrals at any time during the year.PROCEDURE FOR PRESENTING EXCUSE NOTESStudents are to present excuse notes to the front office each morning before school begins. PROCEDURE FOR ARRIVING LATE TO SCHOOLBeing at school and being on time is vital to students’ academic success. Students who arrive after 7:55 and before 8:55 a.m. will report to the media center to sign in for 1st period. Students who arrive after 8:55 a.m. must check in at the office and then report to their classroom teacher. Failure to follow this plan will be counted as skipping class.TARDINESSStudents should not be tardy/late to school or class. The administration will handle tardies to school, and each teacher will mark tardies to his/her class. Consequences for tardiness will be enforced after the 7th tardy has occurred. Students will receive administrative detention and will continue to receive administrative detention for each tardy after the 7th one. FORTY-FIVE and SEVENTY-FIVE MINUTE RULE-Students must attend forty-five (45) minutes of a class period to be counted present for that class period. Students must attend seventy-five (75) minutes of class time during 4th block to be counted present for that class period.SIGNING OUT EARLYStudents may leave school early under the following conditions:1. A parent comes to the office and signs the student out for the day.2. A student may bring a note from home to be turned in to the front office. The note must include a phone number where a parent can be reached for verification purposes. The student will not be allowed to leave school without the note being verified.3. A parent calls the office to confirm the note.4. With permission, students may sign out in the office.5. Excused reasons to leave school are the same as for excused absences.EARLY RELEASEThe State Board of Education has adopted very detailed requirements for the early release of students. Briefly stated, students may not leave early except for certain prescribed work and educational activities. Juniors and seniors desiring to leave school early must complete either the Application for Educational Release Form (Dual Enrollment at a college or technical school) or the Application for Work Release Form. Students should see the counselor or advisor for early release information. PERFECT ATTENDANCE (Board Policy JB)Certificate of Perfect Attendance - For a student to be awarded a “Certificate of Perfect Attendance,” the student must be in compliance with all local attendance rules as well as the state attendance policy. A student must be marked present on school records each school day during the school year to be considered for a perfect attendance certificate for the school year.A student must be marked present on school records each school day during the school year for twelve years to be considered for a perfect attendance certificate for twelve years. For a student to be marked present, the student must be in school for one-half of the school day. In addition to being marked present by attending three (3) complete class periods, the other portion of the school day must be a legal absence. Students with one or more illegal absences will not receive a “Certificate of Perfect Attendance.” WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOLAll students who withdraw from, or drop out of, school for any reason should do so through the guidance/counselor’s office. Withdrawal forms are available from the counselor. A student’s withdrawal will not be processed until all books have been returned or lost books are paid for. All fines or fees that are owed to the school must also be cleared. Requests from the student or other schools for a transcript will be delayed until a student completes all of the above.GRADES AND REQUIREMENTSSCHEDULE CHANGESThe State Board of Education regulations require a specific number of hours of participation in a course in order to receive a Carnegie unit of credit. Therefore, students will not be permitted to drop and add courses after the first five days of a semester. Requests made within the first five days are subject to approval and may be denied.TEST EXEMPTIONSAll students are required to take a mid-term exam; however, students may exempt finals by meeting the following criteria:All students:Students with an 85 or higher in a class and 10 or fewer total absences (no distinction made between excused/unexcused) in a year-long class [5 or fewer absences in a semester-long class] are exempt from the final exam in that class. Additionally, the student must have had no ISS or OSS referrals at any time during the year.GRADING SCALEThe following scale will be used in assigning grades:90-100: Superior80-89: Good70-79: FairBelow 70 FailureConduct: S-Satisfactory, N-Needs Improvement, U-UnsatisfactoryGRADING SYSTEMEducational progress and accomplishments must be evaluated and recorded in terms of numerical grades; therefore, it is a must that all grades recorded be established by using the same criteria in order to give uniformity to grades. In individual classes, whenever grades are averaged and there is a fraction, the grade is rounded to the next whole number when the fraction is .5 or higher, and the whole number is used in all further calculations; if the fraction is less than .5, the grade is rounded down to the next whole number. This DOES NOT apply to calculations done to determine the final average for Honor Roll and Honor Graduate.Points will be added to the final average for Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes:1. Students will receive three (3) points for any Honors class and/or Dual Enrollment class (formerly referred to as MOWR classes taken at a college).2. Students will receive five (5) Points for any Advanced Placement AP class. Students who do not complete an Honors, Dual Enrollment, or AP course will NOT receive additional points.The following criteria will be used to establish this uniformity:1. Range of grades: 0-1002. Passing Grades: 70-1003. Progress reports distributed at midpoint of each 9 weeks4. Four evaluation periods of approximately 9 weeks.5. A student must have an average of 90 or above for the grading period to be on the Honor Roll. No rounding will be allowed when calculating for Honor Roll.6. An incomplete (I) will be shown on the report card but will not be recorded on permanent records. An incomplete will automatically become an F (failure) if the work is not made up during the next five (5) school days.VALEDICTORIAN, SALUTATORIAN, THIRD HONOR GRADUATE, AND STAR STUDENTValedictorian, Salutatorian, and Third Honor Graduate: To be considered for one of these positions, a student must be enrolled at BCHS a minimum of 4 semesters and 2 of those semesters must be on the BCHS campus. STAR Student: To be considered a candidate for BCHS STAR Student, a student must be a BCHS student a minimum of 2 semesters and one of those semesters must be on the BCHS campus.PROMOTION/GRADE CLASSIFICATIONA student must meet the following requirements to be promoted from one grade to the next:9th to 10th: 5 Units10th to 11th: 11 Units11th to 12th: 16 UnitsELIGIBILITY FOR EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIESIn order to be eligible to participate in extra-curricular activities, students must meet eligibility requirements. Students must check with coaches, the athletic director, or the counselor for specific requirements for each grade level.GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS FOR CLASS OF 2012 AND BEYONDThe diploma requirements (in Carnegie Units) for High School Graduation are:English 4Math 4Science 4(The 4th Science may be used to meet both the science and elective requirement.)Social Studies 3CTAE and/orModern Languageand/or Fine Arts 3Health & Physical Education 1Electives 4TOTAL 23University Endorsement: For University Endorsement, students must complete the above requirements and complete two (2) years of foreign language.Honors: For Honors Endorsement, students must be enrolled in the BCHS Honors Program and meet established criteria, including the completion of two (2) years of foreign language.REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION IN GRADUATION CEREMONY ON THE FOLLOWING DATE:MAY 23, 2020, at 9:00 a.m. at ROYAL STADIUMBLECKLEY COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION POLICYTo be eligible to take part in the Bleckley County High School Graduation Ceremony, students must have accumulated the required Carnegie units. DISCIPLINE POLICIES AND PROCEDURESThe most important task of students attending Bleckley County High School is the process of learning and preparing for life as an adult and a productive citizen. For each student to have the most positive learning experience possible, it is necessary to have policies and rules that govern the behavior of all within the school. All students are responsible for knowing this code and for adjusting their behavior accordingly. In society, adaptation is necessary for peaceful and meaningful coexistence. Through self-discipline, students develop the character needed to succeed in life. The faculty and staff of Bleckley County High School encourage self-discipline and expect all students to abide by the policies and procedures of the school. Students must be respectful of others’ rights and responsible for their own actions. Faculty and staff members respect the rights of all students and strive to create an environment that is orderly, peaceful, safe, nonthreatening, and conducive to learning. All students have the right to a caring, well-prepared teacher who instructs the subject in a professional manner and who limits the disruptive behavior of others from interfering with the class. All students have the right to choose how they behave, with full understanding of the consequences, both good and bad, that follow their choices. Therefore, the Bleckley County High School faculty and staff EXPECT any student who cannot support the established policies to accept the consequences for his/her own actions and behavior. Simply stated, the motto for the faculty and staff’s expectations might be: Let the choices you make today be choices you can live with tomorrow.RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR BCHS STUDENTSThe following section of the handbook contains rules and regulations for the students of Bleckley County High School. These policies are designed to create the expectation that students will behave in a way that facilitates a positive learning environment while showing respect for themselves, other students, and school district employees. These rules are in effect any time the student is on campus for any reason or is attending a school function on or off campus. Students who choose not to abide by the code of conduct established for high school students by the school and the Bleckley County Board of Education will be subject to appropriate consequences. The consequences will be based on the degree of the infraction, the circumstances surrounding the matter, and the frequency of the problem.THE AUTHORITY OF THE TEACHER OVER THE CLASSROOMA teacher shall have the authority to manage his or her classroom, to discipline students, and to refer students to the office in order to maintain discipline in the classroom. A teacher shall also have the right to remove a student from his or her classroom when the student repeatedly or substantially interferes with the teacher’s ability to communicate effectively with students in the class or with the ability of the student’s classmates to learn. When a student is removed from the classroom, the principal, after hearing the explanations of the teacher and the student, shall determine the proper placement for the student. The proper placement may range from an alternative educational setting, another classroom of the same course, In School Suspension, Home Suspension, or a return to the same classroom from which the student was removed.WARNINGSA warning may be given to a student for any infraction that occurs at school when deemed necessary.DETENTIONTEACHER DETENTIONTeachers may assign detention for inappropriate or unacceptable conduct, late assignments, and other misbehavior in the classroom. The student will be told the date, time (before or after school), and place to serve the detention for the teacher. Each detention will last fifteen (15) minutes. Should a student have a detention assignment for another teacher that same day, the student must provide a note signed by the teacher explaining the conflict. Failure to provide the note will not excuse the detention. If a detention is missed, it is automatically doubled and carries to the next day. A teacher may remind a student but is not required to do so. In the event of an absence on the day a student is scheduled to serve detention, the student is required to make it up the first day the student returns to school. Signing out early from school does not excuse a student from missing detention. Students who miss the doubled detention for a teacher will be assigned after school detention by an administrator. A student who has a reoccurring problem with missing detention may be assigned ISS.ADMINISTRATIVE DETENTIONA student assigned to administrative detention for any reason will report at 3:15 p.m. to the room of the teacher supervising detention that day. A list of students assigned to detention and the location of the detention will be announced during the day. Detention will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:15 until 4:00 p.m. Students reporting late (after the 3:15 p.m. bell) will not be allowed in the room, and the student will be counted as having missed detention. Students who have conflicts with the time (i.e., practice, games, appointments) should attend detention from 7:00 until 7:45 a.m. in the office. Only extreme reasons will be accepted for missing detention and must be approved by administration. Students who miss detention may be assigned to ISS. When serving detention, students must bring an assignment and must work on the assignment during the period of detention. Failure to bring and work on an assignment may result in ISS. Detention may be assigned to a student for any infraction that occurs at school when deemed necessary.IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSIONThe In School Suspension (ISS) program allows students to remain in school, to be counted present, and to keep up with classwork while simultaneously being punished for failure to follow the rules, policies, and procedures of the student handbook and/or code of conduct of Bleckley County High School. If a student is assigned to ISS, the student should report to the ISS Room each day to complete schoolwork. The student will be expected to follow a strict set of rules and regulations that will be explained upon entering the ISS Room. Failure to follow these rules while in ISS will result in Home Suspension. A student must complete the full amount of time assigned to ISS; otherwise, the student will continue to report to ISS until the entire time assigned has been completed. Absences and/or signing out early do not excuse a student from serving the entirety of the ISS assignment. Excusable reasons for leaving will be handled on an individual basis. HOME SUSPENSIONHome Suspension is a short-term suspension when a student is sent home for a period of days (not more than 10) because of his/her behavior. A student suspended home will be counted absent on those days and will be allowed to make up work during the first home suspension. If a student is suspended home more than one time during the school year, the student will receive zeroes on all missed assignments. At times it may be necessary to recommend long-term suspension or expulsion of a student to the Board of Education. This shall be done when the offense warrants such action or when an accumulation of offenses warrants this action. Home suspension may be assigned to a student for any infraction that occurs at school when deemed necessary.CORPORAL PUNISHMENTCorporal punishment may be used as a disciplinary tool. The principal, in order to maintain proper control and discipline over pupils placed in his/her care and supervision may, in the exercise of his/her sound discretion, administer corporal punishment on any such pupil or pupils provided that such punishment shall not be excessive or unduly severe. Corporal punishment will only be administered in the office of the principal or his designee, by the principal or his designee, and only in the presence of a certificated member of the staff. Corporal punishment must not be excessive and must not be cruel and unusual.Corporal punishment will be used only under the following guidelines:1. When the student selects this type of punishment.2. When in the presence of another faculty member.3. Never in front of other students.4. With the principal’s paddle or appropriate substitute.5. Never more than three licks.6. Always on the buttocks.7. Students will not be held or restrained while being paddled.8. The witness must be told beforehand, in the presence of the student, the reason for the punishment. Corporal punishment shall not be administered to a child whose parents or legal guardian has upon the day of enrollment of the pupil filed with the principal of the school a statement from a medical doctor licensed in Georgia stating that it is detrimental to the child’s mental or emotional stability.DISCIPLINARY TRIBUNALIn extreme cases and in situations where all other attempts to correct or deter inappropriate behavior have failed, a student may be referred to a Disciplinary Tribunal Hearing. This is a hearing before system administrators used to determine appropriate placement for a student. As a result of the Tribunal Hearing, the following may occur:1. A student may be placed in In-School Suspension (ISS).2. A student may be suspended out of school.3. A student may be expelled from school.4. A student may be assigned to the Bleckley County Success Academy (BCSA).5. A student may be returned to the regular classroom with modifications.PARENT INVOLVEMENTTo improve and enhance student behavior and academic performance, faculty and staff members of Bleckley County High School encourage strong partnerships among students, parents, guardians, teachers, and administrators. Communication between the school and the home is vital; therefore, parents/guardians are strongly encouraged to contact teachers and to remain involved in the learning process their child is experiencing in high school. STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICESBleckley County High School strives to provide appropriate services needed by students to help them address areas of concern. The process of educating, engaging, and disciplining students includes due consideration of a student’s discipline history as well as the severity of the discipline problem. Any services available through the school, the school system, other public entities, or community organizations that may help the student address behavioral problems will be made available to students and their families.SCHOOL SAFETY ZONEThe School Safety Zone is defined as in, on, or within 1000 feet of any real property owned by or leased by the Bleckley County School System.STUDENTS SUBJECT TO DISCIPLINARY ORDERS OF OTHER SCHOOL SYSTEMSPursuant to State Law 20-2-751.2 a local board of education which has a student who attempts to enroll or who is enrolled in its school system during the time in which that student is subject to a disciplinary order of any other school system is authorized to refuse to enroll or subject that student to; short-term suspension, long-term suspension, or expulsion for any time remaining in that other school system’s disciplinary order.CONDUCT NOT PERMITTED AT BCHSThe degree of discipline for misbehavior will be in proportion to the severity of the behavior leading to the disciplinary action. The previous discipline history of the student being disciplined and other relevant factors will be taken into account.1. CLASSROOM DISRUPTION: Students are expected to cooperate fully with their teachers. A student’s behavior in the classroom should not distract or interfere in the learning process. Discipline in the classroom will be handled by the teacher whenever possible. Should misbehavior be continuous or disruptive as to disturb others, the student will be referred to the office.2. HALL DISRUPTION: Any behavior in the hall considered inappropriate (i.e., running, playing, making loud noises, disturbing classes, etc.) will be dealt with as a behavior problem and may result in an office referral.3. HALL PASSES: Students should not be in the hall at any time without a hall pass. The hall pass should be signed and dated by the student’s teacher. If a student is in the hallway without a pass, the student will be escorted back to his/her teacher’s room.4. LUNCHROOM DISRUPTION: Students should not run, cut in line, play or shout in the lunch line, make loud noises while waiting to get their trays, or create disruptions in the lunch line. Seniors are allowed to sit in the senior section as well as outdoors on the patio. SENIORS: Remember that sitting in the senior section as well as outdoors on the patio is a privilege. Privileges can be revoked. Keep the senior section and the patio area clean and orderly.5. USE OF PROFANITY/VULGARITY TOWARD A STUDENT: Using profane, vulgar, or obscene words and/or gestures toward other students will not be tolerated.6. USE OF PROFANITY/VULGARITY TOWARD A TEACHER OR OTHER SCHOOL OFFICIAL: Using profane, vulgar, or obscene words and/or gestures toward any school employee will be taken very seriously and dealt with accordingly.7. THREAT OR VERBAL ASSAULT: Students will not make threatening remarks toward another student. Threats and/or verbal assault is considered bullying and will not be tolerated.8. THREAT OR VERBAL ASSAULT TO A TEACHER OR SCHOOL OFFICIAL: Threatening, challenging to an extreme, or verbally attacking a school official will be taken very seriously and dealt with accordingly.9. INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS: Students should show respect for themselves as well as their peers. Public displays of affection will not be permitted.10. TRUANCY/SKIPPING: Once a student leaves home to come to school, he/she is responsible to the school. If a student arrives at school and leaves without properly signing out through the office, he/she is considered skipping school. A student who is on campus but out of class without proper permission is considered skipping. A student is considered skipping if the student’s parent/guardian believes that he/she is at school and the student is not in school. Punishment for skipping school will result in ISS11. USE/POSSESSION OF TOBACCO: Students are not allowed to use or have in their possession any tobacco product (including cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, dip, e-cigarettes, vape pens, vaping liquid, juuls, lighters, matches, or other paraphernalia associated with tobacco, etc.). Any items found will be confiscated and destroyed. Students will be assigned to ISS for any tobacco offense.12. USE/POSSESSION OF ALCOHOL/DRUGS: At no time during school or at a school function will the use of, or the possession of, alcoholic beverages, drugs, or drug paraphernalia be allowed. 13. POSSESSION OF A WEAPON: It is against the law to possess firearms and other weapons on school grounds. No weapon of any sort will be allowed on campus, at school, or at any school function. This includes any of the items listed below in the “Notice” and any other items that may be used as a weapon. State law 20-2-751.1 requires the expulsion from school for a period of time not less than one calendar year for any student who brings a weapon to school. Any student who brings a firearm or weapon to school shall be referred to the appropriate criminal justice or juvenile delinquency authorities.14. USE OF A WEAPON: The use or attempted use of a weapon of any type at school or at a school function will be handled to the fullest extent allowable by state and federal laws.NOTICEIt is unlawful for any person to carry, possess, or have under control any weapon at a school building, at a school function, or on school property, or on a bus, or other transportation furnished by the school. The term “weapon” means and includes any pistol, revolver, or any weapon designed or intended to propel a missile of any kind, or any dirk, bowie knife, switchblade, ballistic knife, any other knife having a blade of two or more inches, straight-edge razor, spring stick, metal knuckles, blackjack, or any flailing instrument consisting of two or more rigid parts connected in such a way to allow them to swing freely, which may be known as a nun chuck, or fighting chain, throwing star or oriental dart, or any weapon of like kind.PUNISHMENT: A fine of not more than $5,000; imprisonment for not more than five years. [O.C.G.A. 16-11-1127.1]15. FIGHTING/PHYSICAL ASSAULT OR BATTERY OF OTHER STUDENTS: Bleckley County High School has a zero tolerance for fighting or similar disturbances. In the event of a fight, the School Resource Officer will be called, and all parties involved will be arrested and prosecuted. The students involved will be suspended home. If it is determined that one student is more at fault than another, that student may receive more severe consequences.16. INCITING A FIGHT: Inciting a fight is perceived the same as being in a fight. Such behavior will not be tolerated. Encouraging others to fight or spreading gossip that leads to a fight, or could result in a fight, will be considered under this category and will be handled accordingly.17. STEALING: Stealing is taking anything that does not belong to you, even if it is intended to be a joke. Such behavior will not be tolerated and will be punished accordingly. 18. CHEATING/ACADEMIC HONESTY: Cheating is stealing knowledge. Violations of academic honesty include but are not limited to the following: copying all, or a portion, of another student’s work, using any material during an assignment that is deemed inappropriate by the teacher, using information from outside sources and claiming authorship, gaining access to tests or assignments before those tests or assignments are given, and assisting or aiding another student in performing one of the aforementioned acts. Any student cheating or helping another student cheat may face the following consequences: the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) will be contacted; the student will receive a zero (0) on the assignment; the student may be assigned to ISS; depending on the student’s previous discipline record, the student may be suspended home or referred to the Bleckley Success Academy.19. VANDALISM OF SCHOOL PROPERTY: Anyone destroying school or personal property will make restitution, receive a school consequence, and will be reported to law enforcement authorities.20. DISRESPECT TO TEACHERS, ADMINISTRATORS, AND OTHER SCHOOL PERSONNEL: Disrespect, including any remark, comment, gesture, or act that questions or challenges the authority of a teacher, will not be tolerated.21. REFUSING A TEACHER: Students are responsible to all school faculty and staff members. Students will follow all instructions given to them by any school official. Refusal to do so will result in the student facing consequences appropriate to the infraction.22. PEP RALLY OR ASSEMBLY DISRUPTION: Misbehavior during a pep rally or other assembly will be punishable at the discretion of the administration.23. MISSING DETENTION: Students who fail to attend detention will receive additional punishment.24. RECKLESS DRIVING ON CAMPUS: Students who drive a vehicle to school must obey all traffic signs on campus. Reckless driving and speeding on school grounds will not be tolerated. City and/or county streets around the school campus are also included in this rule.25. EXCESSIVE LOUD MUSIC IN A CAR ON CAMPUS: Students will not play music so loud that it can be heard outside the car while on campus.26. GIVING FALSE INFORMATION TO A SCHOOL OFFICIAL: Students are not to give false or misleading information to a school official, including forging a note.27. ROUGHHOUSING OR HORSEPLAY: Students will refrain from playing, chasing, wrestling, or any other activity that could be considered roughhousing or horseplay.28. FIELD TRIP MISBEHAVIOR: Students are to follow all school rules as outlined in the student handbook and the student code of conduct, including dress code, while on school sponsored trips of any kind. Students who have experienced behavior issues may be denied the privilege of attending school-sponsored field trips.29. INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR BY STUDENTS: Inappropriate behavior is behavior unbecoming of high school students. This can be physical, verbal, or suggestive action. Harassment of another student is also included in this category. Students will not argue and disrupt the school environment. Problems brought to school from home should be handled in an appropriate manner and not through an altercation. Teachers, administrators, and counselors are available to help resolve a conflict before it escalates to the point of verbal or physical assault.30. PHYSICAL ASSAULT OF A TEACHER: Students will not physically assault a member of the staff employed by the Bleckley County Board of Education.31. GAMBLING: Students are not to gamble or have gambling devices at school. If a student is caught gambling, the gambling device and/or money will be confiscated.32. GANG ACTIVITY OR RIOTING: Bleckley County High School has a zero tolerance for ANY gang related activity. Any student participating in any known gang activity, as a joke or as part of a gang, will be dealt with swiftly and sternly. Students will be considered guilty of this offense if they talk about being in a gang or any gang activity, ask about being in a gang, use hand gestures associated with gang activity, wear clothing associated with being in a gang, or wear other items associated with a gang. Gang related clothing and manner of dress may include but is not limited to the following: wearing or possessing a bandana so that it can be seen, rolling up a sleeve or a pants leg, wearing any item, or items, that single out a student as a gang member, wearing a hat improperly on the school campus as well as wearing shirts or other clothing that has pictures of gang symbols or persons associated with gangs. Drawing or writing gang symbols on items such as papers, notebooks, books, any school property or other items is prohibited. If a student is in possession of such an item that has gang related symbols on it or is involved in any activity that can be considered to be of a gang related nature, the student will be considered guilty of this offense and will be dealt with accordingly. Gang related items will be confiscated and turned over to the local law enforcement agency.33. CALLING A TEACHER BY HIS/HER FIRST NAME: Calling any teacher or other school official, including substitutes, by his/her first name is considered disrespectful and will be dealt with as such.34. POSSESSION AND/OR USE OF AN EXPLOSIVE DEVICE: Students are not allowed to possess, detonate, or discharge explosive devices, such as firecrackers, smoke bombs, cherry bombs, etc.35. LEAVING A DESIGNATED AREA: Students are to stay in the area they are assigned (i.e.,lunchroom during lunch, weight room during weight lifting class, etc.). Students’ failure to be in the area they are assigned will be dealt with accordingly.36. ILLEGALLY PARKING ON CAMPUS: Students must have a parking permit to park on campus. If a student parks in a space he/she is not assigned, the student may lose the privilege of parking on campus. *(See Page 10)37. FORGERY: Students will not sign the name of a parent or teacher to a note and present it to the school or a school official for any reason.38. MISBEHAVIOR FOR A SUBSTITUTE: Substitute teachers are to be given the same respect as any other school official.39. POSSESSION OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES: Students are not allowed to have electronic devices out and in use during the hours of 7:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. unless they are in a classroom that allows the use of such devices. Teachers will have a sign indicating if electronic devices are allowed in their class or not. Students will abide by each teacher’s rules regarding the usage of electronic devices within the classroom. Students should have devices out only during the time the teacher has a sign up allowing the use of the devices. Students should have electronic devices put away at all other times. Students who do not follow this rule will have electronic devices confiscated. Students who have their electronic devices confiscated may have their devices returned after five (5) school days free of charge. We will allow students to pay $10.00 after 3:00 p.m. the day the device is confiscated to have the device returned the same day.40. POCKET KNIVES: No knife of any length is allowed at school. A knife with a blade over 2” long will be considered a weapon and handled accordingly.41. EXTORTION: Extortion is the forcing of a fellow student to obey your demands by threats or physical violence. Any student who threatens or otherwise uses extortion against another student for payment of money or property will face disciplinary action.42. HAZING: Hazing will be defined as subjecting any student who is a member of a team, club, group, or other school organization to an activity that endangers or is likely to endanger that student in any way or an act that is intended to intimidate that student, regardless of the location of the act or of a student’s willingness to participate. The following disciplinary actions will occur: First Offense: The student will be removed from the team/club/group/organization for the rest of the current season/school term. Second Offense: The student will be barred from participation in any extracurricular activity for the remainder of his/her high school career. A referral to a tribunal will be made with a recommendation of placement at the Bleckley County Success Academy.43. BULLYING: Bullying is defined as any willful attempt or threat to inflict injury on another person, when accompanied by an apparent present ability to do so, or any intentional display of force that would give the victim reason to fear or expect immediate bodily harm. Such acts by a student can result in the suspected student being assigned to the Bleckley County Success Academy. Upon finding that a student has actually committed the offense of bullying, at a minimum, the student will be assigned to an alternative educational program. Bullying is a serious offense and carries strong repercussions both at the school level and beyond. 44. REPEAT OFFENSES: Students who repeat the same offense(s) will be assigned In-School Suspension. Students who have been assigned to ISS previously for the same offense may be suspended home.45. Students participating in athletics must adhere to the BCHS Athletic Code of Conduct.SCHOOL SPONSORED TRIP BEHAVIORShould a student’s behavior become uncontrollable or should a student be arrested on a school-sponsored trip, the parent or guardian will be contacted to come get the student. The school will not assume the responsibility of getting a student out of jail should such uncontrollable behavior result in arrest. Students must provide proof of medical/health insurance to cover the cost of emergency care, or they will not be allowed to go on a school field trip. BEHAVIOR AT SCHOOL SPONSORED EVENTSStudents attending school-sponsored events such as ball games, plays, concerts, etc., are subject to all rules of the regular school day. Students shall show respect and courtesy toward persons attending school events. Verbal assault, physical assault or battery, and disrespectful behavior toward others will not be tolerated. Students who violate the code of conduct are subject to the appropriate consequences, removal from the event, and possible loss of the privilege to attend school sponsored events.SCHOOL BUS DISRUPTIONSEE CODE OF CONDUCTCHRONIC DISCIPLINE PROBLEM STUDENTSA student who exhibits a continual pattern of behavioral characteristics which interfere with the learning process of other students around him or her will be considered a chronic discipline problem student. The student’s parents/guardians, the student’s teachers, school administrators, and any other school personnel involved with the student will develop a behavior correction plan. Chronic discipline problem students may face suspension or expulsion for continued misbehavior.SUSPENSION AND ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL AND AFTER SCHOOL FUNCTIONSStudents who are under suspension from school (in-school suspension or home suspension) or students who have been enrolled at the Bleckley County Success Academy are not allowed to attend regular school or participate in any school functions at Bleckley County High School (ball games, club/organization meetings/events, dances, etc.). Students who have been in ISS or who have been suspended home are eligible to participate in such activities at the end of the school day on their last day of suspension.STUDENT MISCONDUCT OFF-CAMPUSIn an effort to maintain a safe and orderly environment for education to take place, it is the intent of the Bleckley County Board of Education to discipline students who engage in off-campus misconduct any time during the year, including summer or other occasions when students are not attending classes.Definition of Off-Campus Misconduct: Any conduct outside of school hours or away from school which may adversely affect the educational process or endanger the health, safety, morals, or well-being of other students, teachers, or employees within the school system. A student whose conduct off campus could result in the student being criminally charged under the Georgia Criminal Code with a felony and which makes the student’s continued presence at school a potential danger to persons or property at the school or which disrupts the education process may be subject to disciplinary action, including in-school suspension, short-term suspension and referral to a disciplinary tribunal. Any student involved in off-campus misconduct may be disciplined or excluded from school using the same procedures used for on-campus misconduct. Students who attend or participate in any activity conducted for the benefit of students are subject to the School Discipline Code during the activity or while traveling to and from the activity.SEARCH AND SEIZURETo maintain order and discipline in the schools and to protect the safety and welfare of students and school personnel, school authorities may search a student, student locker, or student automobiles under the circumstances outlined below and may seize any illegal, unauthorized, or contraband materials discovered in the search. As used in the discipline code, the term unauthorized means any item dangerous to the health or safety of students or school personnel, or disruptive of any lawful function, mission, or process of the school, or any item described as unauthorized in school rules available to the student. A student’s failure to permit searches and seizures as provided in the policy will be considered grounds for disciplinary action.Personal Searches: A student’s person and/or personal effects (e.g. purse, book bag, etc.) may be searched whenever a school authority has reasonable suspicion to believe the student is in possession of illegal or unauthorized materials. If a pat down search of a student’s person is conducted, it will be conducted by a school employee of the same sex and with an adult witness present, when feasible.Locker Searches: Student lockers are school property and remain at all times under the control of the school; however, students are expected to assume full responsibility for the security of their locker. Periodic general inspections of lockers may be conducted by school authorities for any reason, at any time, without notice, without general student consent, and without a search warrant.Automobile Searches: Students are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not of right. The school retains authority to conduct routine patrols of student parking lots and inspections of student automobiles on school property and within the school safety zone. The interiors of student vehicles may be inspected whenever a school authority has any reason to believe that illegal or unauthorized materials are contained inside. Such patrols and inspections may be conducted without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant.Seizure of Materials: If a search yields illegal or contraband materials, such items shall be turned over to the proper legal authorities for ultimate disposition.School Authorities: As used in this discipline code, school authorities means school principal, an assistant principal, or any other school employee designated by the principal to conduct inspections or searches of students, student lockers, or automobiles.USE OF METAL DETECTORSSchool officials and law enforcement officers may conduct metal detector checks of groups of individuals if the checks are done in a minimally intrusive, nondiscriminatory manner (i.e., on all students in a randomly selected class; on every third individual entering an athletic event). Metal detector checks of groups of individuals may not be used to single out a particular individual or category of individuals.If a school official or a law enforcement officer has reasonable suspicion to believe that a particular student is in possession of an illegal or unauthorized object or weapon containing metal, he or she may conduct a metal detector check of the student’s person and personal effects. A student’s failure to permit a metal detector check as provided in this code will result in disciplinary action, including suspension. Any student wearing a pacemaker, defibrillator, or similar device who objects to being scanned by a metal detector may notify the appropriate school officials and may be subject to an alternate means of search.Metal Detector Checks of Classes of Students: When a principal decides to conduct a group metal detector check, he or she (or a designee) will select the class(es) to be checked at random by blindly drawing one or more classrooms from all the classrooms within the school. The drawing shall be conducted in the presence of another adult. Before conducting the metal detector checks, the participating administrator or law enforcement officer will enter the classroom and explain the scanning process to students in the class, emphasizing that checks are intended to maintain safe schools.ITEMS STUDENTS ARE NOT TO HAVE AT SCHOOLTo ensure the safety of students, teachers, and all others at school, the following items are not to be brought to school for any reason. Students are not to have them on their person, in a book bag or purse, in a locker, in a car, or anywhere else on school property. These items will be confiscated. Depending on the item, the student may be assigned to detention, ISS, suspended home, or assigned to the Bleckley County Success Academy. Items brought to school that can be considered a weapon could result in suspension, a tribunal hearing, and possibly the recommendation for expulsion.Weapons of any kindKnives of any kind or length, including pocket knivesTobacco productsLightersPlaying CardsGang related items or items with gang signs or symbolsPrescription and nonprescription medication (must be turned in to the office)Items advertising tobacco and alcoholic products, including clothing, key chains, etc.Chains that attach to a belt, or a belt loop, and hang down (any chain that is not considered traditional jewelry)Straps hung around the neck, with a clasp on the end, used to carry keys and other items? Any other item deemed inappropriate for a student at school or that may endanger the health and/or well-being of othersBEHAVIOR NOT COVERED ABOVEThe school reserves the right to punish behavior, which is subversive to good order and discipline in the schools, even though such behavior is not specified in the preceding written rules. The punishment of such behavior will be at the discretion of the principal.BLECKLEY COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT ADVISEMENT PROGRAMSTATEMENT OF PURPOSEThe advisement of students can be a program of valuable assistance to students and parents. Bleckley County High School’s advisement program has been developed with the needs of all students in mind. Advisors guide students toward making the proper course selection and individually counsel students regarding future career possibilities. In addition, advisors maintain updated student records to ensure students are on track for graduation as well as preparation for future goals regarding post-secondary education. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES1. The advisement program will provide advisement for each student.2. The advisement program will provide each student the information necessary for graduation preparation.3. The advisement program will provide each student the information necessary for career preparation.4. The advisement program will encourage effective parent/home communication.5. The advisement programs will be designed so there is faculty support and involvement.6. The advisement process will include an on-going evaluation of activities by grade level.7. The advisement process will provide accurate and current student records.GRADE LEVEL ACTIVITIES9TH GRADE LEVEL OBJECTIVE ACTIVITIES1. The student will be guided in proper course selection.a. The counselor/advisor will explain to each student the course of study options.b. The counselor/advisor will review course selection.c. The student will review the course description book.d. The student will develop a four-year plan based on the recommended course of study.2. The student will explore education-career relationshipsa. The counselor/advisor will discuss the decision-making process.b. The counselor/advisor will present vocational offerings and suggest academic areas that are related to student interests and long-term goals.3. The student will continue to develop and revise a four-year plan of study.a. The student will review a tentative four-year plan.b. The counselor/advisor will conduct conferences to review status for four-year plans.4. The student will understand the value of and requirements for extracurricular activities.a. The student will be made aware of all extracurricular activities.b. The student will be made aware of the value of extracurricular activities.c. The counselor/advisors and/or extracurricular sponsors will explain participation requirements.10TH GRADE LEVEL OBJECTIVE ACTIVITIES1. The student will be guided in proper course selection.a. The counselor/advisor will review student schedules.b. The counselor/advisor/students will review transcripts and revise schedules as necessary.2. The student will explore education-career relationships.a. The students will match personal interest with career objectives/educational requirements.b. The students will choose pathways to match career objectives and interests.3. The student will continue to develop and revise a four-year plan of study.a. The advisor/student will review the four-year plan of study.b. The counselor/advisor will conduct conferences to review and revise plans.11TH GRADE LEVEL OBJECTIVE ACTIVITIES1. The student will be guided in proper course selection.a. The counselor/advisor will review student schedules, especially for required courses.b. The counselor/advisor will ensure students have taken required core classes and are on track for graduation. c. The counselor/advisor/students will review and revise schedules as necessary to meet core class requirements as well as pathway requirements.2. The student will gain an understanding of testing programs and test-taking techniques.a. The test coordinator/counselor will conduct meetings on the testing program emphasizing the SAT, the ACT, the ASVAB, and the PSAT.3. The student will explore education-career relationships.a. The student will update career/advisement folders.b. The students will explore possible post-secondary educational options related to occupational interests.4. The student will continue to develop and revise a four-year plan of study.a. The advisor/student will review the four-year plan of studyb. The counselor/advisor will conduct conferences, as needed, to review and revise plans.12TH GRADE LEVEL OBJECTIVE ACTIVITIES1. The student will be guided in proper course selection.a. The counselor/advisor will review student schedules, especially for required courses.b. The counselor/advisor will check electives/pathways.c. The counselor/advisor/students will review and revise schedules as necessary to meet core class requirements as well as pathway requirements. 2. The student will continue to gain an understanding of the testing program and test-taking techniques.a. The test coordinator/counselor will conduct meetings on the testing program emphasizing the SAT, the ACT, and the ASVAB.3. The student will explore education-career relationships.a. The guidance counselor will coordinate a financial aid program for students.b. Students will participate in post-secondary option sessions, which develop appropriate procedures for application to college or technical schools.4. The student will continue to develop and revise a four-year plan of study.a. The advisor/student will examine current status of four-year plan, make necessary revisions, examine requirements for graduation and review deficiencies.ADVISEMENT TO EXPLORE EDUCATION/CAREER RELATIONSHIPS1. GCIS Career/Education information is available to students on a continuous basis2.College/Career Night Program, TBA3. Georgia Student Finance Speaker, TBABleckley County SchoolsSchool Calendar for 2019 - 2020 7/29-8/1 M-Th Pre-Planning July 29 M Pre-K Parent Orientation July 31 W School Visitations 3:30pm-6:00pm Aug 2 F First Day of School Aug 7 M 1st. Day of 21st. CLCC After School Program Aug 13 Tu BCHS 9th Gr Parent Meeting 6pm (Auditorium) Aug 27 Tu BCMS Open House 5:30-7p Sep 2 M Labor Day Holiday Sep 5 Th BCSA Open House 6 pm Sep 5 Th BCES Open House 5:30-6:30 Sep 9-11 M-W BCES Grand’s Breakfast Sep 11 W Progress Reports Sep 12 Th Pre-K Open House 6-7pm Sep 26 Th BCPS Open House 6-7pm Oct 1 Tu BCHS Parent/Teacher Conferences 4-7pm BCMS Read-in w/Buddy 3:30 Oct 4 F End of 1st Nine Weeks Oct 7-8 M-Tu Columbus Day Holiday Oct 9 W Staff PL Day/Student Holiday Oct 16 F Report Cards Oct 24 Th BCPS Literacy Night Oct 29 TU BCMS Hero Luncheon Nov 7 Th BCES Math & Science Night Nov 20 W Progress Reports Nov 25-29 Thanksgiving Holidays Dec 19 Th End of 2nd Nine Wks—Noon Dec 20—Jan 2 Christmas Holidays Jan 3 F Teacher Workday Jan 6 M Students Return to School Jan 8 W Report Cards Jan 20 M MLK, Jr. Holiday Jan 28 Tu BCMS Open House 6-7pm Feb 6 Th BCES Winterfest Feb 12 W Progress Reports Feb 17 M Presidents’ Day Holiday Feb 27 Tu BCPS Literacy Night 4-6pm Mar 11 W End of 3rd Nine Weeks Mar 16 M Holiday for Staff and Students Mar 18 W Report Cards Apr 3 F BCPS Book Character Parade BCHS Prom 7:15pm Apr 6-10 M-F Spring Break Apr 15-19 W-Su BCMS 8th Gr Washington DC Apr 20 M BCHS Honors (1:30 & 7pm) Apr 22 W Progress Reports Apr 23 Th BCMS Honor’s Night BCHS CTAE Awards (6pm) May 1 F Pre-K Field Day May 8 F BCPS Field Day May 11 M BCES Honors Night (5:30pm) May 15 F BCES Field Day May 18 M BCPS Honors Day May 19 Tu BCSA Graduation 6pm May 20 W Last Day of School— Noon May 20-22 W-F Post Planning May 23 Sat BCHS Graduation 9 am (stadium) ................
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